Living With Wet AMD: What Treatment and Monitoring Look Like Over Time
If you've recently been diagnosed with wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD), you likely have many questions, concerns, and fears about potential vision loss. While wet AMD is a progressive eye disease, advancements in treatment and monitoring offer hope for improved management and better outcomes. Regular check-ups with a retina specialist are key, as your treatment plan may change over time. By staying proactive and informed, you can improve your retinal health and navigate the challenges of wet AMD with confidence and resilience.
What Wet AMD Treatment Involves
Wet AMD treatments primarily focus on anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) drugs, which are injected directly into the eye to block signals that promote the growth of new, leaky blood vessels. Although the idea of an eye injection can be intimidating, numbing drops are administered beforehand, and the procedure is quick with minimal discomfort. Typically, patients require monthly treatments at first, which can then be spaced out as the condition stabilizes.
Other treatments for wet AMD include laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy. Laser photocoagulation involves a focused laser to seal leaking blood vessels in the eye, while photodynamic therapy uses a light-activated drug to target and damage abnormal blood vessels. These treatments are less common but may be used in some instances of wet AMD.
How Treatment Plans Can Change Over Time
A patient's wet AMD treatment can change over time, evolving from intensive initial injections to adjusted, less frequent intervals as the condition stabilizes. However, long-term vision can still decline, requiring ongoing monitoring and adaptive strategies.
The main factor driving treatment changes is the eye's response as monitored by comprehensive retinal exams and scans. Additionally, patient factors such as quitting smoking and managing heart and overall health can influence disease progression and treatment tolerance.
Consistent Care Promotes Good Outcomes
Regular care for wet AMD is essential for preserving vision. This is primarily achieved through anti-VEGF eye injections, regular eye exams for monitoring, and daily self-checks to identify any worsening symptoms early. Treatment can help stabilize or even improve vision, but inconsistent care may lead to rapid and permanent vision loss. By maintaining a dedicated approach, retina specialists can help prevent further damage from abnormal blood vessel growth and scarring, thereby preserving visual function for a longer period.
For world-class, consistent treatment of wet AMD and other retinal conditions, turn to the expert team at The Retina Eye Center. We're proud to be the preferred choice in the Central Savannah River Area, serving patients in Aiken, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.